Independence High School (IHS) junior Carmen Chen earned one of the most meaningful honors presented during the 11th annual Playhouse Square Dazzle Awards on May 16, receiving the Spirit of the Dazzle Award during the ceremony at the KeyBank State Theatre.
The Dazzle Awards, presented by Pat and John Chapman, celebrate excellence in high school musical theater across Northeast Ohio. This year, Independence seniors Tillie Averre and Gianna Londrico were members of the cast of the Dazzle Awards production, while Chen served as a Technical Apprentice, assisting backstage throughout the week of rehearsals and during the live production itself.
Chen was also selected as a Technical Apprentice for the 2025 Dazzle Awards, further highlighting her commitment and passion for technical theater.
The Spirit of the Dazzle Award is a special recognition selected by the adult directors and production staff who work closely with students throughout the intensive rehearsal week. The award honors students who demonstrate exceptional character, camaraderie, positivity, and impact on those around them during the production process.
This year, Chen made Dazzle Awards history as the first-ever Technical Apprentice to receive the honor, which has traditionally been awarded to cast members.
According to IHS Choir Director and Drama Club Advisor Gretchen Obrovac, Chen’s enthusiasm, dedication, and love for theater made a lasting impression on everyone involved in the production.
“She was completely shocked to receive it and almost speechless in her heartfelt acceptance saying, ‘I don’t know what to say except I love everyone here!’” said Obrovac.
Obrovac said Chen’s recognition comes as no surprise to those who have worked alongside her. “I have never had such a dedicated technical theater student as Carmen,” said Obrovac. “She truly loves it, and it brings her joy. For our Independence shows, she is always going the extra mile, first one there, last one out, getting the job done, and done well. I am always so proud of her and now thrilled she has been recognized with this award.”
The honor also marked another milestone for Independence High School theater, as the district earned the Spirit of the Dazzle Award for the second consecutive year. Last year’s recipient, Jack Ottaviano, returned this year as a trophy presenter and had the opportunity to personally hand the award to Chen during the ceremony.
The full-circle moment added to an already memorable evening for Independence’s theater program and highlighted the strong tradition of cultivating a legacy of excellence that continues to grow within the district’s performing arts programs.
